Kralan

Kralan is a traditional Cambodian dish made from sticky rice, coconut milk, black beans, and grated coconut. It is typically cooked in bamboo tubes and is often sold by street vendors in Cambodia.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Kralan are sticky rice, coconut milk, black beans, and grated coconut. The sticky rice is soaked in water for several hours before being mixed with the other ingredients. The mixture is then packed into bamboo tubes and cooked over an open fire.

Preparation

The preparation of Kralan involves several steps. First, the sticky rice is soaked in water for several hours. The rice is then drained and mixed with the black beans, coconut milk, and grated coconut. This mixture is packed into bamboo tubes, which are sealed with banana leaves. The tubes are then placed over an open fire and cooked for several hours. The cooking process caramelizes the sugars in the coconut milk, giving the dish its distinctive sweet and smoky flavor.

Cultural Significance

Kralan holds a significant place in Cambodian culture. It is often prepared for special occasions and festivals, such as the Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben. The dish is also commonly sold by street vendors, making it a popular snack for locals and tourists alike.

Variations

There are several variations of Kralan throughout Cambodia. Some versions use different types of beans, such as red beans or mung beans, while others add additional ingredients like sugar or salt. The cooking time can also vary, with some versions being cooked for up to six hours.

See Also

• Cambodian cuisine
• Sticky rice
• Coconut milk
• Black beans
• Grated coconut